A significant step was taken today in Banjul as the Ministry of Youth & Sports and the Basse Area Council (BSAC) formalized a partnership aimed at transforming the management and operations of the Basse Mini Stadium a development long anticipated by the people of the Upper River Region.
In his statement , the Honourable Minister of Youth and Sports, Bakary Y. Badjie reaffirmed Government’s strong commitment to the growth of sports nationwide. He described the move as part of a broader decentralization agenda intended to empower local authorities to take ownership of sports facilities while aligning with national development goals.
The Minister emphasized that strengthening grassroots sports remains central to Government’s vision, noting that proper management structures at the local level will ensure sustainability, improved standards, and wider community participation.
He assured stakeholders that the Ministry will continue to provide policy guidance and oversight to guarantee that the stadium operates in line with national expectations.
For his part, the Chairman of the Basse Area Council, Hon. Mahamadou Ceesay, reflected on the Council’s journey toward this milestone. He acknowledged that in the past, the region faced criticism for lacking a standard football competition a concern he admitted was justified and one that prompted serious reflection.
According to him, between 2023 and 2025 the Council deliberately prioritized institutional strengthening over immediate infrastructure expansion. With limited financial capacity and a modest annual budget, the leadership chose to focus on building sound governance systems, accountability mechanisms, and financial discipline before embarking on major projects.
“We began with what we had,” he stated, explaining that restoring confidence and improving internal structures were necessary steps toward sustainable development. The Council, he added, studied best practices from other countries and adapted lessons that fit their local realities to ensure long-term impact.
Hon. Ceesay further reaffirmed the Council’s readiness to support sporting competitions and collaborate with all stakeholders to ensure players compete under proper conditions, including improved lighting and essential logistics.
The Permanent Secretary, Mr. Bulli Dibba, and the Acting Executive director of The Gambia National Sports Council – NSC both highlighted the importance of structured management and community ownership in securing the stadium’s future.
Also in attendance was Saikou Bah, National Assembly Member for Basse and Chair of the National Assembly Select Committee on Sports, underscoring strong legislative backing for sports advancement in the region.
The ceremony concluded with the official signing of the documents by representatives of both institutions, followed by a symbolic handshake to seal the partnership.
